The Ghent University building that for several weeks now has been occupied by protesting students may now be cleared the Ghent appeal court has ruled. The court says the situation has escalated: "This is no longer merely a purely peaceful protest by committed students." The activists are now given 12 hours to leave.
Home News
Appeal court rules against occupation of Ghent University: 'Pro-Gaza protest no longer a purely peaceful protest'
Colin Clapson
Published:
Only last week, a lower court ruled that an eviction was not justified because students have the right to protest peacefully but the appeal court now feels that in the meantime the situation has escalated. It points to the skirmishes in late May.
The court refers an "unstable wooden structure" that the activists have made in the building, the makeshift kitchen used by third parties to cook and the risk of fire. The court also notes reports of acts of vandalism, sexually transgressive behaviour and theft continue to increase.
The court says the activists are using the building for a purpose for which it is not equipped, intended or insured. It says the activists have been able to make their views clear, that the university was willing to take their views on board and student demands were partly met.
The court ruled that as a result clearing the building could now go ahead. Activists get 12 hours to leave.
The activists now have 12 hours to leave "with all their belongings, structures and materials". After that, Ghent University can and may proceed with a forced eviction, with or without the help of the police.
After the eviction, the activists are also not allowed to enter any of Ghent University's buildings to resume their action. If they do so, fines of 250 euros per person will follow.